“When we read, another person thinks for us: we merely repeat his mental process. In learning to write, the pupil goes over with his pen what the teacher has outlined in pencil: so in reading; the greater part of the work of thought is already done for us. This is why it relieves us to take up a book after being occupied with our own thoughts. And in reading, the mind is, in fact, only the playground of another’s thoughts. So it comes about that if anyone spends almost the whole day in reading, and by way of relaxation devotes the intervals to some thoughtless pastime, he gradually loses the capacity for thinking; just as the man who always rides, at last forgets how to walk. This is the case with many learned persons: they have read themselves stupid.”
― Essays and Aphorisms
― Essays and Aphorisms
Ask Jodi Picoult - February 27, 2013
— 1600 members
— last activity Aug 25, 2018 08:26PM
**Update** Thank you so much for participating in our Ask Jodi chat! Unfortunately Jodi wasn't able to answer all of your amazing questions because t ...more
Sareh’s 2025 Year in Books
Take a look at Sareh’s Year in Books, including some fun facts about their reading.
Favorite Genres
Polls voted on by Sareh
Lists liked by Sareh









